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PACCAR MX-13 vs MX-11: Engine Size for Your Application

83Very Good

PACCAR MX-13

Average Score

VS
81Very Good

PACCAR MX-11

Average Score

Winner: PACCAR MX-13

Category Breakdown

Power Output

PACCAR MX-13 wins
PACCAR MX-1390
PACCAR MX-1172

The MX-13 produces up to 510 HP and 1,850 lb-ft of torque — adequate for virtually any Class 8 application. The MX-11 maxes at 430 HP and 1,550 lb-ft, sufficient for lighter applications but limited for heavy haul or mountainous terrain.

Fuel Economy

PACCAR MX-11 wins
PACCAR MX-1382
PACCAR MX-1188

The MX-11 is lighter and smaller, producing 3-5% better fuel economy in applications where its power is sufficient. For regional haul and medium-weight loads, the MX-11's efficiency advantage is measurable.

Weight Savings

PACCAR MX-11 wins
PACCAR MX-1372
PACCAR MX-1188

The MX-11 weighs approximately 400-500 lbs less than the MX-13. For weight-sensitive applications, this translates directly to more payload capacity. Combined with a lighter transmission, the total drivetrain savings can approach 800 lbs.

Versatility

PACCAR MX-13 wins
PACCAR MX-1390
PACCAR MX-1172

The MX-13 handles any load, any terrain, any application. From lightweight dry van to 80,000 lb gross weight, it has power to spare. The MX-11 is optimized for specific applications and may struggle under maximum loads or steep grades.

Maintenance Cost

PACCAR MX-11 wins
PACCAR MX-1382
PACCAR MX-1185

The smaller MX-11 uses less oil per change, smaller filters, and lighter-duty components — resulting in marginally lower maintenance costs per service interval.

Score Summary

CategoryPACCAR MX-13PACCAR MX-11Leader
Power Output9072PACCAR MX-13
Fuel Economy8288PACCAR MX-11
Weight Savings7288PACCAR MX-11
Versatility9072PACCAR MX-13
Maintenance Cost8285PACCAR MX-11
Overall Average8381PACCAR MX-13

Our Verdict

The MX-13 wins as the versatile, do-everything engine for any trucking application. Its power reserve handles any load without strain, providing confidence on mountain grades and in heavy-haul situations.

The MX-11 wins for specific applications: regional haul, lightweight commodities, and operations where fuel economy and payload capacity outweigh the need for maximum power. The weight and fuel savings are meaningful when power is not the limiting factor.

Default to MX-13 unless you have a specific reason (weight-sensitive freight, regional-only operations) to choose the MX-11.

Frequently Asked Questions

The MX-11 can handle 80,000 lbs on flat terrain but will work harder on grades compared to the MX-13. For operators consistently running at or near max gross weight through mountainous areas, the MX-13 provides a better experience. For lighter loads on flatter routes, the MX-11 is adequate.
MX-13 trucks generally have better resale because they appeal to a broader buyer pool. An MX-11 truck can only serve lighter applications, limiting the buyer market. The resale difference is $5,000-$10,000 in favor of the MX-13 on comparable trucks.
Both are PACCAR-designed engines but they are different platforms. The MX-11 is not simply a detuned MX-13 — it is a distinct, smaller engine optimized for different applications. They share some design philosophy but not major components.

Need Help Choosing?

Browse our in-depth reviews, use our free comparison tools, and check out our calculators to find the right products for your trucking business.

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Published March 25, 2026